ERYTHROmycin/Rifampin Paste
ERYTHROmycin/Rifampin is a compounded formulation containing ERYTHROmycin, Rifampin, prepared by Mixlab for veterinary use. Available by prescription.
Paste medications are thick and sticky, usually given by mouth using a syringe or tube. They’re often used for dewormers or other oral meds in horses, dogs, and cats. The key is to aim for the back of the mouth so your pet swallows the paste instead of spitting it out.
For Horses:
- Set the dose on the syringe if it has markings (usually based on weight).
- Stand beside your horse, not in front, and have someone hold them if possible.
- Gently insert your thumb into the side of the horse’s mouth (between the teeth) to open it.
- Insert the syringe into that gap and squirt the paste toward the back of the tongue.
- Lift the horse’s head slightly and encourage swallowing by stroking the throat or gently blowing on the nostrils.
- Watch for licking or chewing—that means they swallowed. If paste spills out, check how much was lost and contact your vet if unsure.
- You can offer a little water afterward and reward them with a treat like a carrot if allowed.
For Dogs & Cats:
- Gently open your pet’s mouth or slip the syringe into the side of it.
- Aim toward the back of the tongue and squirt the paste in.
- Hold the mouth closed briefly, and rub the throat or blow gently on the nose to encourage swallowing.
- Give praise or a treat afterward to make it a positive experience.
Aftercare:
- Wipe your pet’s mouth if needed.
- Clean or recap the syringe as instructed.
- Store the tube according to label directions.
Tip: Paste can feel weird to pets at first. For horses, try giving applesauce by syringe ahead of time so they get used to the sensation.
This compounded formulation combines erythromycin, a macrolide antibiotic, with rifampin, an antibiotic — two different drug classes. In compounding practice, clinicians may consider a combination like this for a multi-targeted approach. Your veterinarian determines whether it is appropriate based on your animal's diagnostic findings.
This description reflects the general pharmacology of the active ingredient's drug class; your veterinarian determines whether this approach is appropriate for your animal.
Prescription only. Use only under the direction of a licensed veterinarian. This information is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, prescribing or monitoring. Compounded drugs are not approved by the FDA for safety or effectiveness.
Commonly observed effects include localized digestive changes and behavioral shifts. A characteristic of rifampin is that it colors bodily fluids, such as urine or saliva, orange or red; your veterinarian will discuss this as a normal physiological observation. Owners should monitor for observational signs of heat intolerance or significant shifts in stool consistency, particularly in foals. It is typically used with caution in patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment. Contact your veterinarian promptly if you notice persistent lethargy or unusual weakness.
Yes. This combination requires a valid prescription from a licensed veterinarian before it can be dispensed. Mixlab verifies all professional authorizations before preparing any medication.
Yes. Mixlab specializes in compounding erythromycin and rifampin into customized oral formats, such as flavored pastes or liquids, to suit the needs of equine patients. The decision rests with your prescribing veterinarian.
Veterinarians may consider combining these ingredients so the preparation can act through more than one mechanism at once — here, it focuses on antibacterial action. Your veterinarian determines whether this multi-targeted approach is appropriate for your pet.
Rifampin is known to cause a harmless orange or reddish discoloration of urine, tears and saliva. This is a property of the medication and is not an observational sign of distress or bleeding.
Erythromycin is associated with an observational decrease in sweat production in some foals. You should monitor for observational signs like increased respiratory rate or seeking shade and contact your veterinarian for guidance.
